Shimano extends Pearl Izumi deal

Following its acquisition of the clothing brand earlier this year, Shimano has now announced that it will distribute the Pearl Izumi range in a number of EU countries.

In the regions where Shimano has its own sales offices – such as Benelux, Nordic, France and Poland – the company will be Pearl Izumi’s exclusive distributor. Shimano Nordic will also handle the Danish market.

"This is a logical step, given the strengths of both our companies," said Pearl Izumi Europe’s MD Jurgen Sprich. "Shimano has a very strong presence in these countries and can serve the market perfectly. In other markets, Pearl Izumi already works successfully with a direct distribution model that will not change."

Shimano Europe MD Marc van Rooij added: "With Pearl Izumi we have a premium brand that is complementary to existing ranges such as Shimano Cycling wear and shoes. With both brands we can serve our customers even better than at this moment. We already have positive experiences with other product categories when it comes to dual brand strategy. Pearl Izumi gives us a stronger product offering that includes running apparel and footwear for our many strong customers in the sporting goods industry."

The distribution deal begins in the New Year when pre-sales for Pearl Izumi’s autumn/winter collection begins.